RTM Long Play Recording LPR 35 14 in Reel to Reel Tape - Studio Sound

In this review the RTM Long Play Recording LPR 35 14 in reel-to-reel tape earns attention for one clear reason: it delivers studio-oriented analog sound with extended recording time. Designed as the long play successor to the SM911 formula, the tape aims at audiophiles, home studio owners and engineers who need authentic, colorful magnetic tape tonality while capturing long sessions without constant reel changes. The bottom line: if you prioritize warm, high-fidelity analog character and reliable durability in long takes, this LPR35 variant is worth testing in your workflow.

Key Features

• Studio quality analog sound: The LPR35 is formulated for high-fidelity clarity and warmth, making recorded mixes sound natural and musically rich.
• Long play capacity: The 3608 ft pancake gives extended recording time for continuous sessions at 7.5 ips or 15 ips, reducing interruptions for long projects.
• Low noise and high output: The tape balances smooth low-noise performance with enough output to capture detailed dynamics and wide soundscapes.
• Durable construction: Built with a robust chemical structure and components to ensure consistent playback and long-term storage stability.
• Archival suitability: Made to preserve important masters and transfers, the tape is offered as a reliable medium for archiving critical audio.
• Proven heritage: Manufactured in France by RTM, it follows legacy BASF/AGFA studio formulas and decades of tape-making experience.

Who It's For

This tape suits audiophiles, home and project studios, and engineers transferring vinyl or capturing live takes who want authentic analog character and extended run time. The long play format is particularly useful for rehearsal recordings, live sessions, and full-album transfers where minimizing reel changes matters.

Those who should look elsewhere include users seeking modern digital convenience, instant editing workflows, or formats optimized for extreme micro-editing; if you need non-analog noise reduction chains or digital recall, this tape is best paired with a tape-friendly workflow and compatible tape machines.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Studio-grade magnetic formula yields warm, musical tonal balance praised for sound quality.
• Long 3608 ft pancake offers up to 96 minutes at 7.5 ips or 48 minutes at 15 ips for extended recording.
• Low noise and high output help preserve dynamic range and detail in recordings.
• Manufactured in France with a legacy formula for consistent, reliable archival performance.

Cons

• Analog workflow requires appropriate reel-to-reel equipment and maintenance, which may not suit casual users.
• Long play pancakes are bulky and require compatible splicing and handling practices to avoid damage.

Specifications

Product	RTM LPR35 long play magnetic tape
Length	3608 ft pancake
Reel diameter	10.5 in
Tape width	14 in
Playback speeds	7.5 ips (96 min) and 15 ips (48 min)
Origin	Made in France
Formula heritage	Long play version of BASF Studio Master SM911 formula

Our Verdict

The RTM LPR35 14 in long play reel-to-reel tape is a strong choice for analog enthusiasts who value warm, studio-quality sound and long uninterrupted runs. It represents good value for studios and home users needing reliable archival performance and musical tape character, provided they can support the tape with the right machines and handling practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will a 3608 ft pancake record?
At 7.5 ips you get about 96 minutes per reel; at 15 ips you get about 48 minutes, making it suitable for extended sessions.

Is this tape suitable for archiving masters?
Yes. It is offered as an archival-quality tape with a durable chemical structure and heritage studio formula intended for long-term preservation.

Do I need special equipment to use it?
You need a compatible reel-to-reel machine that accepts 10.5 in diameter pancakes and supports professional handling practices for splicing and storage.